The Carolina Panthers are looking to turn the ship around after a dismal season that saw the team struggle on both sides of the ball. Finishing near the bottom in multiple offensive categories, the Panthers have made significant moves this offseason to bolster their roster and coaching staff, aiming to address these glaring deficiencies.
Offensive Struggles
Last season, the Panthers found themselves at the bottom of the league in both rushing and passing metrics. With just 1,769 rushing yards, they were in the bottom half of the league. Their average of 4 yards per carry was passable, but it didn’t translate into scoring opportunities, as they finished with a league-low seven rushing touchdowns.
On the passing front, the situation was even more dismal. The Panthers were last in the league with only 3,245 passing yards and tied for second-fewest passing touchdowns, managing just 13 through the air. Perhaps more troubling was their passing first-down percentage, a league-worst 25.6%. The offensive line struggled to protect their quarterback, as the team gave up the second-most sacks in the league with 65.
Coaching and Leadership Changes
The offseason brought significant changes, beginning with the hiring of rookie head coach Dave Canales. Canales brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to revamping the team's offensive attack. His vision for the team’s future is clear, especially when it comes to improving the ground game. "It all starts with the run game," Canales emphasized, adding, "I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game, which, for me, opens everything else up. It helps third down, it helps move the ball and give you more opportunities."
Key Additions
The Panthers have made strategic acquisitions to support their new coach’s vision. They drafted running back Jonathon Brooks, a move intended to inject fresh talent into a sluggish offense. Additionally, they reinforced their offensive line by signing guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, adding both talent and depth to a unit that desperately needed it.
Last season’s leading rushers, Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, are expected to benefit from these upgrades. The pair showed flashes of potential despite the overall struggles of the team's offense. With an improved offensive line and a new running back to share the load, there’s reason to believe that the rushing attack will be more effective this season.
Bryce Young’s Development
Another focal point for the Panthers is the development of quarterback Bryce Young. Young, who finished his rookie season with a 2-15 record, has the potential to grow with a stronger supporting cast. The pressure to perform will be lessened if the Panthers can establish a solid running game, as Canales intends. An effective ground game will open up opportunities in the passing game, providing Young with more balanced and manageable scenarios on the field.
Looking Ahead
As the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season, the emphasis remains on turning their weaknesses into strengths. The organization is hopeful that the combination of a revamped coaching staff and key offseason acquisitions will translate into better performances and ultimately, more wins. Canales's strategy of improving the run game to create more offensive opportunities will be put to the test. The success of this approach could very well define the trajectory of the Panthers for years to come.
The upcoming months will reveal just how much the offseason moves have reshaped the team. With training camp on the horizon, the Panthers are determined to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of improvement, aiming to climb out of the league's basement and re-establish themselves as a competitive franchise.